‘It Is Written ...’

By Ron Adams

    In Matthew 4:1-10 we have the account of Jesus being tempted by the devil. The three temptations briefly summarized are as follows:

• The first temptation: “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.”
• The second temptation: “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down [from the pinnacle of the temple]; for it is written, ‘He will command his angels concerning you’; and ‘on their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’”
• The third temptation: “All these things I will give You, if You fall down and worship me.”

While there are a number of lessons that can be learned from this exchange, here is one that is not usually considered: He didn’t use His power to turn stones into bread. He didn’t use the power of angels to bear Him up. He didn’t accept the devil's offer of a shortcut to power. Jesus’ answer to each temptation was “It is written.” He steadfastly relied on the Scriptures not His power.
    ‘It Is Written!’
    Here is a lesson for all Christians. Jesus used the power of the Scriptures in resisting temptation; and we have the same power at our disposal! If we are willing to apply the teachings of the scriptures when tempted, that is sufficient power to resist. We don’t need supernatural power, we don’t need the host of heaven to intervene for us.
    Jesus has shown us by His example that the Word of God is powerful. Powerful enough to resist the devil. Powerful enough to protect us in times of trials. Powerful enough to save us. Let us wield the sword of the Spirit (the word of God, Eph. 6:17) to combat Satan when we are tempted. Know the Scriptures. Know them well. Know how to use them.
    Remember, that Jesus’ goal was to do His Father’s will, and our goal should  be to do His will. Remember, there is power in “It is written.”

- F.Y.C. is a monthly publication by Ron Adams. Bible references are from the NASB except where another translation is referenced. Back issues are archived at http://ra10ar.com Be thoughtful and kind. All rights reserved. © 2016